ABSTRACT

Objective:

The aim of the current study was to investigate the relationship between birth order, perceived parenting styles and schema domains. It was hypothesized that schema domains and perceived parenting styles would differ, based on birth order.

Method:

For this purpose, 294 individuals participated in the study. They were between the ages of 18 and 30. Only participants whose parents were still married had been included in the study. Participants who had a deceased parent or adopted siblings were excluded.

Results:

The hypothesis that fi rstborn and lastborn siblings differ in their schema domains was not supported. It was found, however, that lastborn siblings considered their mothers as more overprotective and anxious compared to fi rstborn siblings. Finally, regression analyses were conducted to investigate the predictors of variables affectingschema domains. According to results, negative parenting styles signifi cantly predicted schema domains. Negative parenting styles of both mothers and fathers predicted Disconnection, Impaired Autonomy, and Impaired Limits. Only mothers’ parenting style predicted Other Directedness and High Standards schema domains.

Discussion:

This study aimed to make a contribution to the literature by investigating a novel research question that has not been previously investigated. As previous research has shown, last born children are perceived as more open to new experiences, rebellious, and independent of family rules. It was thought that mothers might be more anxious and protective towards their last born children, because of this perception. It might be important for therapists to consider birth order of their clients, especially those that are the youngest of siblings in a family of protective parents, in terms of issues related to individuation and independence.